Linkage based exercise machine

ABSTRACT

An exercise machine has a frame and an operating linkage. The operating linkage includes any of a number of mechanisms that can adjust a foot trace generated by the linkage. In one configuration, the foot trace can be adjusted between at least a generally vertical trace and a generally horizontal trace.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.11/392,371, filed Mar. 29, 2006, which is a continuation-in-part to U.S.patent application Ser. No. 11/192,977, filed Jul. 29, 2005, whichclaims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.60/592,615, filed Jul. 30, 2004 and U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 60/732,873, filed Nov. 2, 2005, each of which is hereby incorporatedby reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention generally relates to elliptical exercise machines.More particularly, the present invention relates to elliptical exercisemachines featuring articulating linkages that generate foot traces for auser and that can be adjusted to vary the foot traces from generallyhorizontal to generally vertical.

2. Description of the Related Art

Most previous elliptical exercise machines have employed guides ortracks that forced one end of a foot support to move in a substantiallylinear manner while the other end of the foot support rotated about acrank axis. A user's foot would be positioned at an intermediatelocation along the foot support. As a result of this construction, themovement of the user's foot would generate a generally elliptical trace.Moreover, as a result of this construction, the user's foot wouldgenerate a generally horizontal foot trace.

Many exercise enthusiasts vary their workouts by switching the motionsused during cardiovascular training. For instance, on one day, theworkout features cardiovascular exercise on an elliptical machine and,on the next day, the workout features cardiovascular exercise on a stairclimbing machine. Similarly, some individuals use both a stair climbingmachine and an elliptical machine on the same visit to the gym so thatthey target different muscles while obtaining a sufficientcardiovascular workout.

In order to accommodate such diversity in workouts, gyms must maintain awide array of machines. Many gyms, whether commercial or home, featureelliptical machines, stair climbing machines (e.g., stepper machines),treadmills and skier machines. Obtaining and maintaining such a diversearray of machines increases the operating costs of the gym.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Accordingly, an elliptical exercise machine has been developed that canprovide varying foot traces. In accordance with one embodiment of themachine, the foot traces can be varied between a generally vertical foottrace and a generally horizontal foot trace.

In accordance with one embodiment of the machine, a linkage assemblythat constrains a pair of foot pedals for elliptical movement ispositioned entirely ahead of a rearmost portion of the foot pedals. Inother words, the foot pedals or foot supports are cantilevered to alocation rearward of the linkage assembly. At least a portion of thelinkage assembly is adjustable to vary the foot trace from a firstgenerally horizontal orientation to a second generally verticalorientation.

One aspect of the present invention involves an exercise machine thatcomprises a generally stationary frame assembly. An operating linkage issupported by the frame assembly. The operating linkage is connected to afoot support. The foot support is adapted to receive a user's foot. Theoperating linkage comprises a first crank and a second crank. The firstcrank is rotatable about a first axis and the second crank is rotatableabout a second axis. A bell crank assembly comprises bell crank that isrotatable with the first crank and a lever arm that is connected to thebell crank such that rotation of the bell crank causes oscillation ofthe lever arm. The lever arm is connected to the foot support. A firstconnecting beam is connected to the first crank and a second connectingbeam is connected to the second crank. The first and second connectingbeams also are connected to the foot support such that the first andsecond connecting beams generate a generally circular movement at thefoot support and such that the lever arm generates a generally linearmovement at the foot support.

Another aspect of the present invention involves an exercise machinethat comprises a generally stationary frame assembly. An operatinglinkage is supported by the frame assembly. The operating linkagecomprises a first crank. The first crank has a first end that isconnected to a first pivot axis and a second end that is connected to afirst end of a first connecting beam. The operating linkage alsocomprises a second crank. The second crank has a first end that isconnected to a second pivot axis and a second end that is connected to afirst end of a second connecting beam. A foot beam is connected to asecond end of the first connecting beam and a second end of the secondconnecting beam. A first end of a bell crank is rotatable with the firstcrank. A foot pad is supported by the foot beam. A second end of thebell crank is connected to a first end of a connecting rod. A second endof the connecting rod is connected to a first end of a lever arm. Alever arm pivot is positioned between the first end of the lever arm anda second end of the lever arm. The second end of the lever arm isconnected to at least one component selected from the group consistingof the first connecting beam, the second connecting beam, and the footbeam.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These features, aspects and advantages will be described in detail withreference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings comprise twenty-sixfigures.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exercise machine that is arranged andconfigured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantagesof the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a right side elevation view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a left side elevation view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front side elevation view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 is a rear side elevation view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a top plan view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a top left perspective view of a portion of a frame assemblyof the exercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a skeleton view of a geared five bar mechanism used with theexercise machine of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a top left perspective view of a lower forward portion of theexercise machine shown in FIG. 1 with some components, including ahousing, a display, various covers and the like, removed for clarity.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged left side elevation view taken from the circle 11in FIG. 3 and showing a foot support used with the exercise machineshown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is an enlarged rear side elevation view taken from the circle 12in FIG. 5 and showing the foot support of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a top right perspective view of the lower forward portion ofthe exercise machine shown in FIG. 1 with some components, including thehousing and some of the frame assembly, removed or shown in broken linesfor clarity.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged top right perspective view of the lower portionof the exercise machine taken from the circle 14 in FIG. 13 with somecomponents removed or shown in broken lines for clarity.

FIG. 15 is a simplified left side elevation view of the exercise machineof FIG. 1 showing a generally elliptical foot trace and shown a varyingrange of motion for the arm handles.

FIG. 16 is a skeleton view of a mechanism used with another exercisemachine that is arranged and configured in accordance with certainfeatures, aspects and advantages of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a skeleton view of the mechanism of FIG. 16 with a length ofa lever arm and a pivot ratio of the lever arm adjusted relative to FIG.16.

FIG. 18 is a skeleton view of the mechanism of FIG. 16 with a length ofthe lever arm adjusted relative to FIG. 16.

FIGS. 19, 20 and 21 are skeleton views of the mechanism of FIG. 18 witha relative angular orientation of the cranks adjusted relative to FIG.18.

FIGS. 22 and 23 are skeleton views of the mechanism of FIG. 16 with apivot ratio of the lever arm adjusted and a relative angular orientationof the cranks adjusted relative to FIG. 16.

FIG. 24 is a skeleton view of the mechanism of FIG. 17 with a relativeangular orientation of the cranks adjusted relative to FIG. 17.

FIG. 25 is a skeleton view of the mechanism of FIG. 18 with a relativeangular orientation of the cranks adjusted relative to FIG. 18.

FIG. 26 is a skeleton view of the mechanism of FIG. 18 with a relativeangular orientation of the cranks adjusted relative to FIG. 18 and witha pivot ratio of the lever arm adjusted relative to FIG. 18.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference initially to FIGS. 1-7, the illustrated exercise machine100 is adapted for stationary positioning on a floor during exercise. Assuch, the machine 100 comprises a frame assembly 102 that supports anoperating linkage 104 (see FIG. 8 for a view of a majority of the frameassembly, FIG. 9 for a skeletal illustration of the operating linkage104 and FIG. 10 for a clearer view of the integration of the frame 102and the linkage 104). A housing 106 encloses a substantial portion ofboth the frame 102 and the linkage 104.

With reference now to FIG. 1, the frame 102 preferably comprises alongitudinally extending center beam 110. At the forward end of thecenter beam 110, a laterally extending front cross beam 112 is securedto the center beam 110. At the rearward end of the center beam 110, arear cross beam 114 is secured to the center beam 110. Together, thecenter beam 110, the front cross beam 112 and the rear cross beam 114define a support base. Other support base arrangements also can be usedkeeping in mind the desire for stability during use of the exercisemachine 100.

With reference to FIG. 6, a rear platform 116 is positioned over thecenter beam 110 and a portion of the rear cross beam 114. The rearplatform 116 can be omitted in some applications; however, in theillustrated embodiment, the rear platform 116 provides a convenientstructure for mounting the exercise machine 100. The illustratedplatform has a generally triangular shape; other configurations also canbe used. Preferably, a rearmost end 120 of the platform 116 defines arearmost extent of the exercise machine 100 during exercise. In otherwords, the operating linkage 104 preferably is positioned entirelyforward of the rearmost end 120 of the platform 116 during all phases ofexercise motion.

With reference again to FIG. 1, the illustrated machine 100 comprises apair of forward rollers 122 (see also FIG. 6) and a pair of rearadjustable feet 124. The illustrated rollers 122 are mounted to thesides of the front cross beam 122 and the illustrated feet 124 arepositioned under the rear cross beam 124. The placement of the rollers122 and the feet 124 can be varied in other configurations. Theadjustable feet 124 can be moved generally vertically in and out of therear cross beam 124 to level the rear cross beam 124. In someconfigurations, the entire exercise machine 100 can be supported byadjustable feet. Such configurations, however, decrease the ability toeasily reposition the exercise machine 100 within an exercise space forcleaning of the floor space or the like.

With reference now to FIG. 8, the frame assembly 102 preferablycomprises one or more upright members. In the illustrated arrangement, aforward display standard 130 curves upward from the forward end of thecenter beam 110. The forward display standard 130 preferably isgenerally rectangular and more preferably is generally hollow such thatthe display standard 130 can form a conduit through which wires and thelike can be routed. The illustrated display standard 130 is curvedmainly for esthetic reasons.

Two rearward posts 132 extend upward along a central portion of thecenter beam 110. The posts 132 preferably slope slightly forward and arejoined by one or more cross braces 134. Two intermediate posts 136 slopeslightly rearward. Together, the intermediate posts 136 and the rearwardposts 132 define a generally A-shaped upright frame that supports theillustrated operating linkage 104. One or more interconnecting braces140 can be used to connect the intermediate posts 136 and the rearwardports 132. Other arrangements also can be used.

With reference again to FIG. 1, in the illustrated configuration, adisplay console 142 is connected to an upper end of the display standard130. The display console 142 can have any suitable configuration. Forinstance, the display console 142 can be configured in a manner such asthat set forth in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/299,625,filed on Nov. 19, 2002, which is incorporated by reference in itsentirety. In the illustrated arrangement, the display console 142 allowsinformation to be conveyed to and from a user in an interactive mannerthrough a display screen, pushbuttons or the like. Moreover, theillustrated display console 142 comprises one or more receptacles 144for holding water bottles, keys and other items that may be carried byusers. The receptacles 144 also can be designed to incorporate featuresfrom copending U.S. patent Ser. No. 10/698,236, filed on Oct. 31, 2003,which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Further, theillustrated display console 142 comprises an air duct outlet 146 thatconveys toward a user air from a suitable cooling system. The displayconsole 142 also can be configured to implement features from copendingU.S. patent Ser. No. 10/299,627, filed on Nov. 19, 2002, which isincorporated by reference in its entirety.

The illustrated display console 142 also comprises a pair of stationaryhandles 150 that can include pulse rate sensors 152. The handles 150extend downward toward a user before bending upward and inward. Thehandles 150 provide a comfortable location for a user's hands whileexercising and the pulse rate sensors 152 allow the exercise machine 100to monitor the pulse rate of a user for use in any suitable routine orfor display to the user. While a certain display console 142 has beenshown and described, any suitable display systems can be used or, incertain less advantageous configurations, the display console can beentirely omitted. Moreover, while the illustrated exercise machine 100comprises a pair of stationary handles 150, the handles can be relocatedor omitted in some constructions.

The frame 102 supports the operating linkage 104, a mechanism which willbe described initially with reference to the skeletal illustration ofFIG. 9. The mechanism can generate a desired elliptical motion at atrace point. In the illustrated configuration, the mechanism can beconsidered a geared five bar mechanism, which is defined herein as afive bar linkage attached to a gear train, and the trace point can beconsidered the location of the foot of the user. In the illustratedconfiguration, the gears are replaced by a drive belt configurationdesigned such that the gears rotate in the same direction at generallythe same speed. Other configurations may use a gear train (e.g., a threegear train) or another suitable mechanical coupling to clock themechanism in timed relationship. As used herein, a five bar linkage ismeant to have its ordinary meaning and can include any linkage havingfour moving links connected by a fixed ground line (hence 5 links) and ageared five bar linkage is meant to have its ordinary meaning and caninclude a five bar linkage, such as described directly above, with twoof the moving links connected by a gear train, pulley drive, belt drive,chain drive or the like. In some configurations, the two moving linkscan be connected by a single link (e.g., a locomotive style system),another linkage or the like.

As illustrated in FIG. 9, the illustrated operating linkage 104 isactually a pair of operating linkages, one for the left foot and one forthe right foot of a user. The two linkages 104 preferably are about 180degrees out of phase. Other constructions can be used and, in someconfigurations, the operating linkages 104 can be separately operatedand are not coupled together. For clarity and ease of description, onlyone of the two linkages 104 will be described in detail.

Preferably, the operating linkage 104 comprises four moving links and afixed “ground link,” which results in five revolute, pivoted or pinjoints. The “ground link” in the illustrated arrangement is formed bythe frame assembly 102. The five bar mechanism preferably is largely, ifnot wholly, positioned within the region of the frame assembly 102. Morepreferably, a large portion of the operating linkage 104 is enclosedwithin the housing 106. Even more preferably, as illustrated in FIG. 10,all but one of the moving joints between the links in the illustratedarrangement are positioned forward of the rearward upright posts 132.

With reference to FIG. 9, the operating linkage 104 preferably comprisesan upper crank 160 and a lower crank 162. The upper crank 160 rotatesabout an upper fixed rotational axis 164 to which a first end of theupper crank 160 is connected and the lower crank 162 rotates about alower fixed rotational axis 166 to which a first end of the lower crank162 is connected. A first end of a first coupler link 170 is joined to asecond end of the upper crank 160 with a first pin joint 172. A firstend of a second coupler link 174 is joined to a second end of the lowercrank 162 with a second pin joint 176. A third pin joint 180 joins asecond end of the first coupler link 174 and a second end of the secondcoupler link 174. The first coupler link 170 further comprises a tracepoint 182, which generally corresponds to a location of a support for auser's foot. During movement of the operating linkage 104, the tracepoint 182 follows a desired generally elliptical path. As such, whenimplemented on the exercise machine 100, the operating linkage 104creates a substantially elliptical trace E for a user's foot, as shownin FIG. 15. The substantially elliptical trace that is generated can bevaried by altering the lengths of the links 160, 162, 170, 174, thespacing and/or relative positioning of the ground points (e.g., 164,166) or by adjusting the phase angle between the cranks 160, 162.

As discussed above, the operating linkage 104 preferably comprises ageared five bar mechanism. With reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, theoperating linkage 104 also comprises an upper pulley 184, a lower pulley186 and a flexible transmitting member 188 that wraps around bothpulleys 184, 186. In a preferred arrangement, the pulleys 184, 186 havethe same outer diameter such that both pulleys move at the same speed.Moreover, to simplify the construction, the upper pulley 184 preferablyrotates about the upper fixed rotational axis 164 while the lower pulley186 preferably rotates about the lower fixed rotational axis 166. Theupper crank 160 can be secured to the upper pulley 184 for rotation withthe upper pulley 184 and the lower crank 162 can be secured to the lowerpulley 186 for rotation with the lower pulley 186. In some embodiments,the cranks can be omitted and the joints (e.g., 170, 176) can be formedas a structure part of the pulleys. As used herein, the term cranks isintended to be given its ordinary meaning and can include constructionsin which a crank is integrated into a pulley. Regardless of whether thecranks are integrated into the pulleys or not, the cranks 160, 162desirably rotate synchronously with each other. As will be described,the cranks 160, 162 can be positioned out of phase relative to eachother but the cranks 160, 162 preferably are still synchronized torotate at the same speed, even if out of phase.

Thus, as described above, the operating linkage 104 for each foot of auser preferably comprises four moving links (160, 162, 170 and 174) thatare connected by three joints (172, 176, 180) with two of the four linksconnected by two additional joints (164, 166) to ground locationsdefined by the axes 164, 166, which are fixed relative to the frameassembly 102. The operating linkage 104 for each foot also comprises aclocking configuration, such as the belt 188 and the pulleys 184, 186,that connects two of the four links (e.g., 160, 162) for timed movement.The clocking configuration governs the movement of the pin joint 180along a predetermined path. It is contemplated that a guiding structurealso can be used to dictate the movement of the pin joint 180 along apredetermined path and, in such configurations, the belt drive may beomitted. For instance, a guide plate with a desired guide path, slot orgroove formed in the guide plate can be used to guide the pin joint 180along the predetermined path. As described herein, the clockingconfiguration and the guide plate configuration define means forcontrolling a path of movement of at least one pin joint of a five barmechanism.

With reference now to FIG. 10, the exercise machine 100 is illustratedwith certain components omitted such that the operating linkage 104 canbe better shown. As illustrated, the upper fixed rotational axis 164 isdefined by an upper axle 190 and the lower fixed rotational axis 166 isdefined by a lower axle 192. In the illustrated arrangement, pillowblock bearings 194 secure the axles 190, 192 to the frame assembly 102.In particular, the pillow block bearings 194 are mounted to theintermediate posts 136 in the illustrated configuration.

The upper crank 160 is mounted to the upper axle 190. The lower crank162 is mounted to the lower axle 192. As illustrated, the cranks 160,162 of the opposing sides of the exercise machine 100 preferably aremounted about 180 degrees out of phase from each other. In theillustrated arrangement, the upper pair of cranks 160 are positionedvertically higher than the lower pair of cranks 162 and the upper pairof cranks 160 are positioned rearward of the lower pair of cranks 162.Other crank placements and orientations also can be used keeping in mindthe desire for a usable foot trace.

The first coupler link 170 has a generally tubular configuration. At thefirst end, the first coupler link 170 comprises a sleeve 196. A stubshaft 200 extends outward from the illustrated upper crank 160 and thesleeve 196 is positioned over the stub shaft 200. The sleeve 196 allowsthe stub shaft 200 to rotate within the sleeve such that the end of thefirst coupler link moves up, down, forward and rearward with therotation of the stub shaft 200 about the upper axle 190, therebydefining the first pin joint 172. Any suitable connection between thefirst coupler link 170 and the upper crank 160 can be used keeping inmind the goal of creating up, down, forward and rearward movement of thefirst end of the first coupler link 170 while the upper crank 160rotates about the upper fixed rotational axis 164 defined by the upperaxle 190.

The second coupler link 174 has a generally bar-like configuration. Atthe first end, the second coupler link 174 also comprises a head 202.The lower crank 162 has a boss 204. The head 202 is connected to theboss 204 by a mechanical fastener 206 or the like. Any suitableconnection can be used keeping in mind the goal of creating up, down,forward and rearward movement of the first end of the second couplerlink 174 while the lower crank 162 rotates about the lower fixedrotational axis 166 defined by the lower axle 192, thereby defining thesecond pin joint 176.

The first coupler link 170 comprises a tab 210 that can be positioned atan intermediate portion of the illustrated first coupler link 170. Inthe illustrated arrangement, the first coupler link 170 comprises a benttubular member. In particular, from the end of the first coupler link170 that comprises the sleeve 196, the illustrated first coupler link170 comprises a first bend 212, a second bend 214 and a third bend 216.The tab 210 is positioned proximate the second bend 214.

The second end of the second coupler link 174 preferably is pivotallyconnected to the tab 210. In the illustrated embodiment, the secondcoupler link 174 is secured to the tab 210 by a mechanical fastener 220.Any other suitable technique can be used to secure the second couplerlink 174 to the first coupler link 170 keeping in mind the goal ofproviding a pivot connection between the first and second coupler links170, 174, thereby defining the third pin joint 180.

As illustrated, an upper pulley 184 preferably is secured to the upperaxle 190 such that the upper pulley 184 and the upper axle 190 rotatetogether while a lower pulley 186 is secured to the lower axle 192 suchthat the lower pulley 186 and the lower axle 192 rotate together. Thepulleys 184, 186 and the axles 190, 192 can be secured together in anysuitable manner. Preferably, the pulleys 184, 186 have the sameeffective diameter such that the axles 190, 192 will rotate at the samespeed. In some configurations, one or both of the pulleys can have anadjustable effective diameter (e.g., a continuously variabletransmission type of pulley) such that the relative rotational speeds orthe relative orientations can be adjusted to alter the driven motion. Abelt, chain, cord or other flexible transmitter 188 interconnects thetwo pulleys 184, 186, such that the two pulleys 184, 186 rotatetogether.

With continued reference to FIG. 10, a secondary pulley 222 is providedon the lower axle 192. The secondary pulley 222 can be provided in otherlocations; however, mounting the secondary pulley 222 to the lower axle192 provides a compact configuration. The secondary pulley 222cooperates with an electronic or mechanical brake 224. The brake 224comprises a pulley and a flexible transmitter 226 interconnects thesecondary pulley 222 with the pulley of the brake 224. The brake 224 canbe any suitable component that resists movement of the operating linkage104. In some configurations, separate brakes can be provided for eachside of the exercise machine 100. In other configurations, separatebrakes can be provided for the upper axle 190 and the lower axle 192. Inyet other configurations, the brake 224 can be replaced by a component(e.g., a motor/generator) that can drive the operating linkage 104 atvarying rates of speed.

A foot support 230 is connected to the second end of each first couplerlink 170. Thus, two foot supports 230 are provided, which are connectedrespectively to the left and right first coupler links 170. Preferably,the foot supports 230 are pivotable relative to the first coupler link170. With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the illustrated foot supports230 comprise a base plate 232 and a foot pad 234. The illustrated baseplate 232 comprises a pair of downwardly depending ears 236. The ears236 are used to secure the base plate 232 to the second end of the firstcoupler link 170. In one configuration, a shaft 240 extends throughapertures formed in the ears 236 and corresponding apertures formed inthe first coupler link 170. Any other suitable configuration can be usedto mount the foot supports 230 to the operating linkage 104.

The foot pad 234 can be formed of any suitable material. In oneconfiguration, the foot pad 234 is rubberized to provide cushioning aswell as a skid-resistant surface. Moreover, the foot pad 234 preferablycomprises an upstanding wall 242. The upstanding wall 242 preferablyextends around at least a portion of the foot pad 234. In one preferredconfiguration, the wall 242 extends around an inner edge, a forward edgeand a portion of an outer edge of each foot pad 234.

The exercise machine 100 also comprises adjustable arm linkages 250.Each of the arm linkages 250 connects a pair of handles 252 to theoperating linkage 104. Advantageously, the arm linkages 250 enablemovement of the handles 252 to be adjusted. In some configurations, thehandles 252 can be brought to a stop. In some other configurations, thesweep angle of the handles 252 can be increased or decreased as desired.Preferably, in either configuration, the handles 252 are moveable in asynchronized relationship with the operating linkage 104.

Each of the arm linkages 250 comprises a lower strut 254 that is securedto a suitable region of the operating linkage 104. In the illustratedarrangement, the strut 254 is secured to the foot support 230. Anysuitable structure can be used to connect the strut 254 and theoperating linkage 104 keeping in mind the desire to create movement ofthe strut 254 through movement of the operating linkage 104. Byconnecting the lower strut 254 to the pivotally mounted foot support230, movement of the foot support 230 can be somewhat controlled by theinterrelationship of the arm linkage 250 and the operating linkage 104.In other words, the illustrated arrangement allows pivotal movement ofthe foot supports 230 relative to the operating linkage 104 to beforced.

As best shown in FIG. 6, the lower strut 254 extends forward of the footsupport 230 and through an opening 256 defined in the housing 106. Withreference again to FIG. 11, a lower end of a lever 260 is pivotallyconnected to the forward end of each of the lower struts 254. Anysuitable pivotal connection can be used. An upper end of the lever 260can be pivotally connected to the frame assembly 102 at a pivot point261. In the illustrated arrangement, the upper end of the lever 260 ispivotally mounted by bearings 262 that are secured to the rearward posts132 of the frame assembly 102. Thus, the levers 260 can swing forwardand rearward with movement of the foot supports 230 and the associatedcomponents of the operating linkage 104.

A flange 264 extends forward from an upper portion of the illustratedlever 260. The flange 264 can be integrally formed with the lever 260;however, in the illustrated arrangement, the flange 264 is a separatecomponent that is secured to the lever 260 in any suitable manner. Forinstance, but without limitation, the flange 264 can be welded to thelever 260, secured to the lever 260 by mechanical interlock, bymechanical fastener or any combination of these techniques.

A first end of a coupler link 266 is pivotally connected to the flange264. In the illustrated arrangement, the flange 264 comprises a shortshaft and the coupler link 266 comprises an aperture through which theshaft extends. A circlip is used to secure the coupler link 266 onto theshaft of the flange 264.

A second end of the coupler link 266 is pivotally connected to a rockerlink 270 at a pivot point 271. The rocker link 270 is secured to asleeve 272. In the illustrated arrangement, the rocker link 270 iswelded to the sleeve 272 and the rocker link 270 is pinned to thecoupler link 266. Due to the illustrated linkage, movement of the footsupports 230 is conveyed through the linkage to the sleeve 272. Thus,the sleeve 272 pivots about an axis S (i.e., rotation in a firstdirection followed by counter-rotation in a second direction) as thefoot supports 230 move forward and rearward along a path dictated by theoperating linkage 104.

As will now be explained, the sleeves 272 have movement that can have avarying angular dimension. In other words, the movement of the sleeves272 can be increased and decreased such that larger or small arcs areswept by the movement of the sleeves 272. In short, the movement isvaried by adjusting the location of the pivot point 271 between thecoupler link 266 and the rocker link 270 relative to the location of thepivot point 261 between the lever 260 and the frame assembly 102. Whenthe two pivotal points 261, 271 are aligned, or close to being aligned,the sleeves 272 are stationary or substantially stationary. As the pivotpoints 261, 271 are increasingly moved out of alignment, the sweep ofeach of the sleeves 272 increases in range.

In the illustrated arrangement, relative movement of the pivot points261, 271 is controlled through an adjustment mechanism 274. For clarity,the adjustment mechanism 274 is shown in FIG. 14. As illustrated, theadjustment mechanism 274 comprises an actuator 276 and a tie assembly280. The tie assembly 280 of the illustrated arrangement guides movementof the pivot axis S. In particular, the illustrated arrangement uses thetie assembly 280 to guide the pivot axis S about a secondary pivot axisA. The movement is controlled with the actuator 276.

The tie assembly 280 can have any suitable configuration keeping in mindthe desire to alter the relative position of the pivot points 261, 271.The illustrated tie assembly 280 generally comprises a lever 282 and asupport bar 284. The lever 282 is formed of rectangular tube stock inthe illustrated arrangement with the support bar 284 extending through afirst end of the lever 282. The second end of the lever 282 is pivotallymounted to a bracket that is secured to the frame assembly 102. Thus,the second end of the lever 282 pivots about the axis A.

The sleeves 272 of the arm linkages 250 are mounted on the ends of thesupport bar 284. In some configurations, the sleeves 272 are mounted onbushings or bearings to allow improved relative movement between thesleeves 272 and the support bar 284. In other configurations, materialsare selected for the sleeves 272 and the support bar 284 to providesufficiently smooth relative movement between the members.

An upper bracket 286 is secured to the lever 282. A lower bracket 290(see FIG. 13) is secured to the frame assembly 102. As described below,the actuator 276 can be any suitable component. In the arrangement shownin FIG. 14, an electromechanical actuator 292 is mounted between thelower bracket 290 and the upper bracket 286. The electromechanicalactuator 292 comprises a lead screw 294 that is driven by an electricmotor. The lead screw 294 can be used for extension and contraction. Asthe electromechanical actuator 292 extends, the lever 282 is pivotedupward. As the electromechanical actuator 294 contracts, the lever 282is pivoted downward. This movement of the lever alters the relationshipbetween the pivot points 261, 271, which alters the sweep of the sleeves272. Furthermore, the movement of the lever 282 also adjusts thelocation of the pivot axis S such that it is closer to the user when thesweep angle of the sleeves 272 is the greatest and it is further fromthe user when the sweep angle of the sleeves 272 is the smallest. Whilethe electromechanical actuator 292 is the actuator 276 in theillustrated configuration, other actuators and mounting configurationsalso are possible. For instance, hydraulic cylinders, air cylinders,other forms of worm gears, other forms of linear actuators and the likecan be used as the actuator and, in some configurations, the pivot axisS can move along a non-arcuate path. Advantageously, the movement of thesleeves 272 about the arcuate path, or any other desired path shape, isaccommodated by a suitably shaped opening 295 in the housing 106.

With reference again to FIG. 10, the handles 252 are coupled to thesleeves 272 in any suitable manner. As such, movement of the sleeves 272generates corresponding movement of the handles 252. In someconfigurations, movement of the handles 252 can provide an input intothe operating linkage 104 rather than being driven as an output of theoperating linkage 104. Because the sleeves 272 are driven through avariable sweep angle, the movement of the handles 252 is adjustableamong various sweep angles, including, in some configurations, a lockedposition in which the handles 252 do not move. Two positions are shownin FIG. 15, with one position shown in solid lines and another shown indashed lines. The positions shown in FIG. 15 represent extremes ofmovement such that the handles 252 sweep back and forth from the firstsolid position to the second solid position or from the first dashedposition to the second dashed position.

In the illustrated arrangement, collars 296 are secured to hubs 300 thatare fixed to the sleeves 272. The collars 296 are secured to the handles252 in any suitable manner. Thus, the handles 252 are easily replaceablefor maintenance purposes. While not illustrated, the handles 252 cancomprise heart rate sensors or the like, if desired.

In use, the user stands upon the foot supports 230 and imparts movementto the foot supports 230. The movement of the foot supports 230 resultsin either forward or rearward movement of the foot supports 230 througha generally elliptical foot trace. As the foot supports 230 are moved,the cranks 160, 162 rotate. Rotation of the cranks 160, 162 is inputinto the braking device 224. Moreover, the braking device 224 can beused to provide variable-level and/or fixed-level resistance to movementof the foot supports 230, if desired. In some configurations, amotor/generator can be used such that movement of the foot supports 230can be driven by the machine such that a user moves along with oroverdrives the movement provided by the exercise machine.

With reference now to FIGS. 16-26, a linkage 500 for another exercisemachine is shown in skeleton view. The linkage shown in each of FIGS.16-26 comprises the same components, which will be identified withreference numerals only on FIG. 16 for clarity. Also for clarity, theillustrated linkage 500 is shown for only one side of the machine 100but can be replicated for both sides of the machine 100. Moreover, thelinkage 500 can be mounted to the structure of the exercise machineshown in FIGS. 1-15 by mounting the pivot locations in manners as shownin FIGS. 1-15. As such, the linkage 500 can define a portion of themachine 100 in some configurations.

The illustrated linkage 500 advantageously is configured to cantileverits foot supports so that it also admits of a smaller machine foot printwhile providing desire foot traces at the foot supports. Even moreadvantageously, the illustrated linkage 500 is configured to allow thefoot traces to be altered in desired manners. For instance, in oneconfiguration, the foot traces can be varied between generallyhorizontal traces (e.g., see FIG. 16) and generally vertical traces(e.g., see FIGS. 17 and 24).

FIG. 16 is a skeleton view of the linkage 500. The linkage 500 is usedon one side of an exercise machine arranged and configured in accordancewith certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention.The illustrated linkage 500 comprises a first crank 510 and a secondcrank 520. A first end 512 of the first crank 510 is pivotally mountedat a first pivot location 514. A first end 522 of the second crank 520is pivotally mounted at a second pivot location 524. While described aspivots, the first and second pivot locations 514, 524 actually definerotational axes. Also, in the illustrated configuration, the first andsecond pivot locations 514, 524 are mounted at generally the samerelative elevation although, in some configurations, the elevation ofthe first and second pivot locations 514, 524 can vary from each otherand from the ground upon which the exercise machine typically rests.

A bell crank mechanism 528 can be connected to one of the first andsecond cranks 510, 520. The illustrated bell crank mechanism 528preferably comprises a bell crank 530 having a first end 532 that iscoupled for rotation with the first crank 510. The bell crank 530, whilepositioned at about 180 degrees from the first crank 510 in theillustrated configuration, can have any desired orientation relative tothe first crank 510. In some configurations, for instance, the bellcrank 530 can be 90 degrees out of phase from the first crank 510.Preferably, however, the bell crank 530 and the first crank 510 arecoupled together or integrally formed such that the bell crank 530rotates about the first pivot location 514 as the first crank 510rotates about the first pivot location 514.

A second end 534 of the illustrated bell crank 530 can be pivotallyconnected to a first end 538 of a connecting rod 540. The connecting rod540 has a second end 542 that is connected to a first end 548 of anoscillating lever arm 550. The oscillating lever arm 550 has a secondend 552 that is coupled to a first end 558 of a drag link 560, which canalso be termed a push rod.

Between the first end 548 of the lever arm 550 and the second end 552 ofthe lever arm 550 is a lever pivot location 554. Thus, the illustratedlever arm 550 comprises a first length 556 and a second length 557 thatare respectively defined between the first end 548 of the lever arm 550and the lever pivot location 554 and between the second end 552 of thelever arm 550 and the lever pivot location 554. Advantageously, thelocation of the lever pivot location 554 along the lever arm 550 can beadjusted in most configurations such that the ratio of the first length556 and the second length 557 can be adjusted. In the illustratedconfiguration, adjusting the ratio such that the first length becomessmaller and the second length becomes larger results in the foot tracebecoming more generally horizontal (see, e.g., FIGS. 16 and 21) whileadjusting the ratio such that the first length becomes larger and thesecond length becomes smaller results in the foot trace becoming moregenerally vertical (see, e.g., FIGS. 17 and 24).

A first connecting beam 570 has a first end 572 that is connected to asecond end 574 of the first crank 510 and extends generally downwardlytherefrom. Similarly, a second connecting beam 580 has a first end 582that is connected to a second end 584 of the second crank 520 andextends downwardly therefrom. A second end 576 of the first connectingbeam 570 and a second end 586 of the second connecting beam 580 arepivotally mounted to a foot beam 590 respectively at a first pivot axis578 and a second pivot axis 588.

A foot pad 592 is pivotally mounted to a rearward portion of the footbeam 590 at a foot pad pivot location 594 in the illustratedarrangement. In some configurations, the foot pad 592 is rigidly fixedto the foot beam 590; however, the illustrated pivotal configurationallows the user to experience a more natural movement. An arm lower link700 and a leg lower link 710 can be used to force the pivotal movementand, in some configurations, to drive a pivotally mounted arm member.

In the illustrated configuration, a first end 702 of the arm lower link700 is pivotally mounted at the first pivot location 514. In otherconfigurations, the first end 702 of the arm lower link 700 can bemounted in other positions. For instance, the first end 702 of the armlower link 700 can be pivotally mounted in a location that is lower thanand rearward of the first pivot location 514. A second end 704 of thearm lower link 700 is pivotally mounted to the leg lower link 710 at afirst end 712. A second end 714 of the leg lower link 710 is connectedto the foot beam 590. In one preferred configuration, the second end 714of the leg lower link 710 is pivotally coupled to a second end 716 ofthe foot beam 590. In other configurations, the second end 714 can beconnected to the foot pad 592 or to another portion of the connectionbetween the foot pad 592 and the foot beam 590. More preferably, thesecond end 714 is rigidly fixed to the foot pad 592 such that the footlower link 710 can be used to drive the pivotal movement of the foot pad592. In some configurations, the arm and leg lower links 700, 710 can beomitted.

The bell crank mechanism, which in the illustrated configurationcomprises the bell crank 530, the connecting rod 540, the oscillatinglever arm 550 and the drag link 560, forces a linear movement at thefoot pad pivot location 594 and ultimately at the foot pad 592. Withoutthe bell crank mechanism, the foot pad pivot location 594 and the footpad 592 would circulate in a circular path. With the bell crankmechanism, the motion path can be forced into an elliptical shape, asdesired. Thus, the bell crank takes the rotary motion of the crank 510,in the illustrated embodiment, and creates an oscillating motion at theoscillating lever arm 550.

A second end 562 of the illustrated push rod 560 is pivotally connectedto a portion of the first connecting beam 570. The connection to thefirst connecting beam 570 provides a linear bias to the generallycircular motion. In some configurations, the second end 562 of the pushrod 560 can be coupled to another component of the mechanism and stillresult in the desired biasing. For instance, the second end 562 can beconnected to any one of the following components at substantially anylocation along the length of the component: the second connecting beam580, the foot beam 590, the arm lower link 700 or the leg lower link710.

With reference now to FIGS. 16-26, the mechanism is constructed to allowthe machine to alter the generated motion. As illustrated, there aremultiple ways of changing motions. In one technique, the relative phaseangle between the two cranks 10, 20 can be varied (see, e.g., compareFIGS. 22 and 23 or FIGS. 18, 19 and 20). In another technique, the ratiobetween the first length 56 and the second length 57 can be variedand/or the length of the lever arm can be changed (see, e.g., FIGS. 16and 17). In yet another technique, a combination of the phase angle, thelever arm length and the ratio can be changed (see, e.g., FIGS. 16-26).The phase angles and the ratios can be varied in any suitable manner.

As illustrated, when the phase angle is increased (i.e., the secondcrank 20 is positioned counterclockwise ahead of the first crank 10)from zero, the motion transforms from generally horizontal to morevertical. For example, when the two cranks are generally at the samerotational angle, the motion is a generally horizontal ellipse but whenthe two cranks are positioned with the second crank 20 about 120 degreesahead of the first crank 10 in a counterclockwise direction, the motionbecomes more vertical.

Also, as illustrated, when the ratio is varied, the motion also changes.For instance, as the ratio is changed by increasing the first length 56,the motion become more vertical while the motion becomes more horizontalas the ratio is changed by decreasing the first length.

By combining the adjustments of both the phase angle and the ratios, anydesired motion can be obtained. As illustrated, a first desired motioncan be a generally horizontal elliptical motion and a second desiredmotion can be a generally vertical stepper motion. Thus, by varying thephase angle and the ratio, the movement can be changed from the firstdesired motion to the second desired motion.

Although the present invention has been described in terms of a certainembodiment, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in theart also are within the scope of this invention. Thus, various changesand modifications may be made without departing from the spirit andscope of the invention. For instance, various components may berepositioned as desired. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects andadvantages are necessarily required to practice the present invention.Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to bedefined only by the claims that follow.

1. An exercise machine comprising a generally stationary frame assembly,an operating linkage supported by said frame assembly, said operatinglinkage comprising a left subassembly and a right subassembly, said leftsubassembly supporting a left foot pad and said right subassemblysupporting a right foot pad, said left subassembly comprising a firstgeared five bar mechanism and said right subassembly comprising a secondgeared five bar mechanism, said first geared five bar mechanismcomprising a first crank and a first pulley coupled for rotation withsaid first crank, a second crank and a second pulley coupled forrotation with said second crank and a belt interconnecting said firstpulley and said second pulley.
 2. The exercise machine of claim 1,wherein said first geared five bar mechanism further comprises saidfirst crank rotatable about a first pin joint, a first coupler linkconnected to said first crank at a second pin joint, a second couplerlink connected to said first coupler link at a third pin joint, saidsecond crank connected to said second coupler link at a fourth pin jointand said second crank being rotatable about a fifth pin joint.
 3. Theexercise machine of claim 1, wherein said first and second pulleys havegenerally the same effective diameters such that said first crank andsaid second crank rotate at generally the same speed.
 4. The exercisemachine of claim 3 further comprising a first handle, said first handletied to said first geared five bar mechanism, said first handle beingpivotal about a first axis, and said first axis being moveable relativeto said frame.
 5. The exercise machine of claim 4, wherein said firstcrank is positioned generally vertically higher than said second crankand said first crank is positioned generally rearward of said secondcrank.
 6. The exercise machine of claim 4 further comprising a motionresisting element connected to at least one of said first crank and saidsecond crank.
 7. The exercise machine of claim 1 wherein said left footpad is supported by said first coupler link at a position generallyrearward of said third pin joint.
 8. The exercise machine of claim 7,wherein said left foot pad is pivotally mounted to said first couplerlink.
 9. An exercise machine comprising a generally stationary frameassembly, an operating linkage supported by said frame assembly, saidoperating linkage comprising a left subassembly and a right subassembly,said left subassembly supporting a left foot support and said rightsubassembly supporting a right foot support, said left subassemblycomprising a five bar mechanism and means for controlling a path ofmovement of said left foot support and said right subassembly comprisinga five bar mechanism and means for controlling a path of movement ofsaid right foot support.
 10. The exercise machine of claim 9, whereinsaid means for controlling comprises a clocking configuration.
 11. Theexercise machine of claim 10, wherein said clocking configurationcomprises a belt and pulleys that connect two links of said five barmechanism for timed movement.
 12. The exercise machine of claim 9,wherein said means for controlling comprises a guide plateconfiguration.
 13. The exercise machine of claim 9, wherein said meansfor controlling comprises an adjustment mechanism.
 14. The exercisemachine of claim 9, wherein said five bar mechanism of said leftsubassembly comprises a first left crank and a second left crank andsaid means for controlling comprising varying a relative phase anglebetween said first left crank and said second left crank.
 15. Theexercise machine of claim 9, wherein said five bar mechanism of saidleft subassembly comprises a first left crank, a first connecting beamconnected at a first end to said first left crank, a second left crankbeing connected to a first end of a second connecting beam, and a footbeam connected to a second end of said first connecting beam and saidfoot beam also connected to a second end of said second connecting beam.16. The exercise machine of claim 15, wherein said means for controllingcomprises a control crank rotatable with said first left crank, aconnecting rod connected to said control crank at a first end, a firstend of an oscillating lever arm connected to a second end of saidconnecting rod, a second end of said oscillating lever arm connected toa first end of a drag link, a second end of said drag link connected tosaid first connecting beam and said oscillating lever arm comprising anadjustable pivot location.
 17. The exercise machine of claim 15, whereinsaid means for controlling comprises a control crank rotatable with saidfirst left crank, a connecting rod connected to said control crank at afirst end, a first end of an oscillating lever arm connected to a secondend of said connecting rod, a second end of said oscillating lever armconnected to a first end of a drag link, a second end of said drag linkconnected to said first connecting beam and said oscillating lever armcomprising an adjustable length between said connection to saidconnecting rod and said connection to said drag link.
 18. The exercisemachine of claim 15, wherein said means for controlling comprises acontrol crank rotatable with said first left crank, a connecting rodconnected to said control crank at a first end, a first end of anoscillating lever arm connected to a second end of said connecting rod,a second end of said oscillating lever arm connected to a first end of adrag link, a second end of said drag link connected to said firstconnecting beam, said oscillating lever arm comprising a pivot axis witha first length and a second length of said oscillating lever arm beingseparated by said pivot axis and a location of said pivot axis alongsaid oscillating lever arm being adjustable.